Each month, this series will provide important facts and tips surrounding child safety in an effort to support parents and caregivers as they navigate reducing risks and creating the safest environment possible for the children in their lives. 

Who’s ready for a little spooky fun? Before you set out trick-or-treating, remind your family that staying safe is your top priority. Halloween is a great time to make memories with your kids, but it’s crucial to be aware of risks. For instance, the National Safety Council notes that children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other day. Additionally, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says that an average of 3,200 people visit the emergency room due to Halloween-related injuries with 46% being under 18. 

So, whether you’re going to be chasing down toddlers all night or letting your high schooler have fun out with friends, we are sharing a breakdown of tips for a safe and happy Halloween!

Little Goblins On-the-Go: 12 Months+

From first timers to tiny tots with a few years under their belts, Halloween can be more of an adorable photo op than a candy filled adventure, but safety is still crucial. 

Costume Safety: Make sure costumes fit comfortably; not too tight, too baggy, overly hot or cold. Avoid masks as these can obstruct vision and breathing; instead, use non-toxic face paint.

Visibility: With nighttime festivities, keep infants and toddlers visible with reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark accessories like glow sticks on bodies or strollers.

Street Safety: Always hold hands and use crosswalks and sidewalks. Stay visible to drivers by carrying a flashlight or using lighting on your stroller. 

Candy Caution: Keep candy out of reach of infants and toddlers to avoid choking hazards and early exposure to processed sugar. 

Candy Crazed Kiddos: 5+ Years

Elementary school-aged kids are excited to get to that candy and feel a bit independent but still count on supervision to keep them safe.

Adult Supervision: Children need help navigating neighborhoods and a mindful eye to monitor candy intake and unnecessary safety risks.

Costume Considerations: Ensure costumes are visible at night and are an appropriate length to avoid tripping. Before the big night, test any face paints to avoid reactions. 

Street Smarts: Teach and remind kids about using crosswalks and looking both ways before crossing streets as well as holding hands of younger family or friends. 

Candy Inspection: Always review candy from events and strangers before consumption. Discard unwrapped or suspicious pieces and those that pose allergic reactions or choking hazards.

Preteen Pumpkins: 11+ Years

Middle schoolers want to be given more freedom, but their enthusiasm and impulse control just might go head to head on Halloween! 

All Together: Encourage groups for trick-or-treating, and set clear boundaries on where they can and cannot go!

Stay Connected: If you won’t be together, equip kids with cell phones or make sure the supervising adult has your number in case of emergency or check in. 

Curfew: Set a specific time that your child understands they need to be home or meet you somewhere specific. 

Stranger Danger: Reminders can save a life! Talk with your kids about never entering the home or car of someone they don’t know and keeping track of their friends. 

Teenage Tricksters: 14+ Years

While some adults may want to roll their eyes when they think of teens trick-or-treating, why not let them still have their festive fun? 

Have a Plan: Ask your teen who they are going with and where they plan to be, so you know in advance. 

Driving Safety: Remind driving teens that streets will be filled with younger children, so they should drive slowly and stay alert. Zero texting when driving!

Substance Awareness: Have an open talk with your kids about drugs and alcohol as well as peer pressure to give them added confidence and awareness. 

In Case of Emergency: Have emergency contacts saved in their phone and remind them you are their safe space if something goes wrong. 

Above all, have a plan for how you’ll celebrate Halloween this year and prepare your kids of every age on how to be safe and have fun!